The social work sector is mourning the loss of Giles Darvill, a pioneering consultant who dedicated his career to helping organisations harness the power of volunteers. Darvill passed away at the age of 81, leaving behind a legacy in social services and a rich personal life filled with artistic pursuits.
A Career Built on Strengthening Social Services
Giles Darvill's professional journey began after he gained a qualification from the University of Cardiff. He started as a social worker for the London borough of Kingston upon Thames in 1971. His career took a significant turn in 1975 when he joined the National Volunteer Centre. This organisation, established just two years prior, aimed to bring greater structure and effectiveness to voluntary work across the country.
He remained at the centre until the mid-1980s, at which point he embarked on a new chapter. Darvill established himself as an independent consultant, offering expert advice to social services organisations on how to optimise the use of their volunteers. This specialised work later led him to a role with the National Institute for Social Work, where he continued until his retirement in 2004.
Early Life and Personal Passions
Born in Macclesfield, Cheshire, Giles was the son of George, an RAF pilot who served in both world wars, and Ruth. After his father's death when Giles was just seven, he was sent to board at St Peter’s preparatory school in Christchurch, Dorset. He later won a scholarship to King’s College in Taunton, where he engaged in theatre, sports, and chapel services.
His personal life was marked by creativity and a deep connection to nature. He married speech therapist Gill Taylor in 1974, and the couple had two children, Hannah and Ben. While living in Southwell, Nottinghamshire, he developed a skilled hobby in stained glass making. Following the end of his marriage in 1995, he began a new partnership in 1996.
A Retirement Dedicated to Nature and Art
In retirement, Darvill returned to Hampshire, settling in Milford on Sea. He transformed an ordinary urban garden into a thriving wildlife haven, complete with ponds, new paths, and unusual planting. His commitment to the environment saw him participate in local groups and conduct surveys on bumblebees and birds.
An active member of his local sailing club, he even carried out a bat survey of the old clubhouse before its redevelopment. He continued creating stained glass pieces for loved ones, wrote poetry, and followed Daoist philosophy. Giles Darvill is survived by his partner, his children Hannah and Ben, and his grandson, Luc.
